Newly elected ASA board has its work cut out - Barry Hendricks

James Moloi was re-elected as ASA president, with John Mathane taking over from Shireen Noble as vice-president, while Kesa Molotsane has been voted chairperson of the Athletes’ Commission, succeeding Hendrick Mokganyetsi.

Following the election, Hendricks, who was re-elected unopposed as SASCOC president last November, urged the ASA board to focus on key priorities, including the permanent appointment of a new CEO and the recruitment of additional staff.

"There’s still a lot of work to do. As a board, you must unite and move in the same direction, making the appointment of a new CEO your top priority," Hendricks told SABC Sport.

"When we brought Nozipho Jafta on board at SASCOC, we secured sponsors and grew our team to 30 employees. It’s essential for you to follow suit – appoint a CEO immediately, expand your staff, and ensure operations run smoothly. 

"Above all, put athletes’ interests first, end internal conflicts, and avoid repeating the negative headlines we’ve seen."

READ: Athletics Free State withdraws nominations for ASA elections

The former president of the Gauteng Sports Confederation expressed disappointment upon learning through the media that both Central Gauteng Athletics and Athletics Free State had withdrawn their entire nomination lists from the ASA elections.

“It was disheartening to see all the negative reports in the media. I urge you to resolve your differences and move forward as a united board,” he said, speaking directly to ASA.

"As SASCOC, we are here to support you and work alongside President James Moloi. We don’t want to see any more infighting or bad publicity. 

"We wish you all the best as you prepare for the World Senior Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, later this year, as well as other upcoming events."